According to netdoctor’s website, about half of people with irritable bowel can date the start of their symptoms to a major life event such as change of house or job, or bereavement. This suggests that there may be a psychological trigger for IBS. Although this condition is physical, and the exact cause haven’t found yet, experts have found its connection with mental health issues and maybe a result of increased gastrointestinal response to stress. The National Digestive Disease Information (NDDIC) states that the large intestine can be sensitive to stress with people with the condition. NDDIC also states that the mental health issues shouldn’t be considered as a primary cause for IBS. On the other hand, people with this condition later on develop mental health issues. How Tapping can Relieve IBS Symptoms

While it cannot be determined which comes first-IBS or stress and anxiety – studies have shown that they tend to manifest and present together. People with anxiety or anxiety disorders tend to worry a great deal about health, finances, career. Such worrying can result in symptoms such as stomach aches, muscle aches, and irritability which are IBS-like presentations as it is. Stress also affects the immune system which could trigger IBS in patients prone to anxiety. One of the best ways to alleviate the symptoms would be to manage and cope with the stress. Relaxation techniques can help ease the IBS symptoms as they quell the tightening and constricting of the abdomen by sheer virtue of calming every part of your body (if done correctly). Exercising and adequate sleep and diet also helps reduce inner tension caused by stress. If lifestyle changes do little to help, it would be best to start discussing with your primary care physician on what options would be available to deal with IBS and its symptoms. While most respond to changes in diet and medication, there are people who have more severe symptoms and could require psychological help in dealing with their problems. This will be discussed in another section.

According to WebMD, options for the treatment of diarrhea can find some relief in dietary changes, medication, reduction of stress, behavioral therapy, and alternative therapy. And while alternative options like acupuncture, supplements and herbal tonics may not get an official endorsement from many doctors, a patient should be able to try the treatment that works best to alleviate the discomfort and symptoms. Avoiding alcohol, caffeinated and carbonated drinks, sorbitol (found in sugar free sweets) and fructose may help relieve the symptoms. Check your eating history as well, as you would have a better knowledge of which of the above-mentioned culprits triggers the symptoms of bloating, abdominal spasms and pain. Fried food and over consumption of fiber could also worsen the symptoms, but fiber ought not to be avoided altogether as it has been shown to help in the prevention of diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease and diabetes. If you want to get your fill of fiber but reduce the possible side effects of flatulence and bloating, it would be advisable to consume soluble fiber since it takes longer to digest. Examples of soluble fiber are oat bran, fruit flesh, and lima beans. Drinking plenty of water (about six to eight glasses) may also help in the digestion of your food.